January 22, 2013

Statement regarding recent media stories concerning St. Vincent Health, Indianapolis and care for the dying

Given by Bishop Christopher J. Coyne, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis:

"For many years, St. Vincent Health, Indianapolis has served the medical needs of the people and families of greater Indianapolis regardless of Creed. The doctors, nurses, caregivers, administration, and staff consistently follow professional decision making structures that give full consideration to the legitimate wishes of patients (and their designated health care agents) within legal and ethical standards under the guidance of the Catholic Church's teaching in these matters. 

"The Archdiocese of Indianapolis works with all Catholic health care providers to ensure that in matters moral and ethical the Church's teaching is followed and the dignity of every patient and his or her legitimate moral and legal instructions as to medical treatment is protected and followed."
 

(Related: Statement from St. Vincent Hospital, "Patient receiving appropriate care")

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